Ronaldinho finds new club

Atletico Mineiro have offered a short-term contract to former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho days after his acrimonious split with Flamengo.

Last Updated: 06/06/12 10:35pm

Ronaldinho: Has penned a short-term deal with Atletico Mineiro

Atletico Mineiro have offered a short-term contract to former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho days after his acrimonious split with Flamengo.

The World Cup winner walked out on Flamengo over a dispute regarding unpaid wages.

The 32-year-old has not had to wait long to find a new club, though, with Atletico prepared to offer him an immediate return to the game.

Ronaldinho has penned a deal that is due to run until the end of the year.

"He is not just any player, he is Ronaldinho," said club president Alexandre Kalil.

"I have a reputation as a madman but I am not mad enough to turn down the chance to sign Ronaldinho."

Focus

Ronaldinho has been back in his native Brazil since signing for Flamengo in January 2011.

He spent 10 years in Europe prior to making that move, turning out for Paris St Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan.

He has struggled to produce his best in recent years, with many questioning his off-field activities, but a man who is considered to be one of the most gifted players of his generation claims he is looking forward to focusing on football again at Atletico.

"Flamengo is now in the past, I am in a new stage of my career, wondering what I will do at Atletico," Ronaldinho told Estadao ESPN.

"Flamengo is a subject that will be dealt with by my lawyers. I only want to worry about football for the next six months.

"It's wonderful to come here with the experience I have and I have a new chance to play a high level."